Page:New history of Botanybay (sic) and Port Jackson.pdf/11

 from our want of beards) of what sex we were, which having understood, they burst into the most immoderate fits of laughter, talking to each other, at the same time, with such rapidity and vociferation, as I had never before heard. After nearly an hour's conversation, by signs and gestures, they repeated the word whurra several times, which signifies Be-gone, and walked away from us to the head of the Bay."

The adventurers in the late expedition: had several more interviews with the natives, which ended in so friendly a manner, that hopes were entertained of bringing about a connection with them. The first object of our people was to win their affection; and the next to convince them of our superiority. To this purpose an officer, one day, prevailed on one of them to place a target, made of bark, against a tree, which he fired at with a pistol, at the distance of some paces. The Indians, though terrified at the report, did not run away, but their astonishment exceeded their alarm, on lockinglooking [sic] at the shield which the ball had perforated. As this produced a little shyness, the officer, dissipate their fears, and remove their jealousy. whistled the air of Marlbroak, with which they appeared highly charmed, and imitated him with equal pleasure and readiness.

After the Governor had arrived at Sydney-Cove, and had erected temporary huts, whereever they could get places clear of trees and bushes, they began to clear the ground, and lines are traced out for the principal streets